CVC & Collectables presents this 1864-M Mexico Maximilian 10 Centavos, struck under Emperor Maximilian I at the Mexico City Mint and certified AU58 by PCGS. Issued during the short-lived Second Mexican Empire (1864–1867), this silver coin bears the imperial bust of Maximilian — Austria’s archduke turned Mexican emperor. With sharp detail and light circulation wear, this near-uncirculated example offers a rare and tangible link to one of Mexico’s most dramatic and complex historical periods. Coin Highlights: Issuer: Second Mexican Empire (1864-1867) Date: 1864 Mint: Mexico City (M mintmark) Denomination: 10 Centavos Composition: Silver (.903 fine, approx. 0.077 oz actual silver weight) Weight: 2.7 g Diameter: 18 mm Edge: Reeded Grade: PCGS AU58 — Nearly uncirculated with slight high-point wear and excellent luster. Obverse: Design: A left-facing bust of Emperor Maximilian I, detailed with imperial attire and a distinctive beard. Inscription: MAXIMILIANO EMPERADOR Translation: “Maximilian Emperor.” Reverse: Design: The Mexican imperial coat of arms, featuring a crowned eagle, standing on a cactus devouring a snake, framed by laurel and oak wreaths. Inscription: IMPERIO MEXICANO (Mexican Empire), along with the denomination and mintmark. Historical Significance: The Second Mexican Empire (1864-1867): This coin was struck during the French-backed rule of Emperor Maximilian I, who was installed as ruler by Napoleon III of France. Maximilian sought to modernize Mexico, but his rule faced strong resistance from Republican forces led by Benito Juárez. 1864: The First Year of Maximilian’s Coinage: This issue represents the first year of Maximilian’s imperial coinage, making it historically important for collectors. His coinage replaced Republican designs and reflected the French influence on Mexico’s monetary system. Mexico City Mint (M Mintmark): The Mexico City Mint was the largest and most important mint in Maximilian’s empire, producing silver and gold coinage for domestic use and international trade.
